“We are so grateful for the Flying Needles donation of these beautiful, patriotic quilts and pillowcases. You can tell they are made with love and full appreciation of our veterans,” said Krista Durocher, volunteer coordinator for TMC Hospice.

From 10-2 on any given Thursday, anywhere between 15 and 25 ladies show up to the small meeting room in the Geasa-Marana Community Library. Each lady with the Flying Needles brings her own project to sew, crochet or embroider. During their time together, they set aside time to show and tell about their individual projects.

“One day a week we meet with friends, share fellowship, forget worries, laugh and enjoy each other’s company,” said Pam Owens, who is one of the founding members of the group. “We share techniques and enthusiasm for projects. We encourage each other and enjoy a day away from our normal routine.”

Some of the Needlers make the quilts and pillowcases that benefit TMC Hospice. It took about two weeks to make the pillow cases, Owens said, adding that the quilts are made at people’s convenience throughout the year as supplies and motivation are available.

“When a veteran patient is presented with one of these, the reaction is so heartwarming,” Durocher said. “You can tell it touches them deeply that someone took time to make this for them.”

The Flying Needles encourages participants to sew for local charities and has supported a variety of organizations over the years. Three years ago, the Flying Needles were approached by TMC Hospice to make valor quilts. A number of folks decided to sew lap quilts and then, later, began making pillowcases.

“We have the belief that the needs of people in Tucson and the world are great,” Owens said. “We feel that if we can help one person that person may be motivated to help another person and so on and so on and people will give and accept help. We like to imagine a chain of people helping others in need.”

Owen added that “one person cannot help everyone, but everyone can help one person.”

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About TMC

Tucson Medical Center, licensed at more than 600 beds, has been Tucson’s locally governed nonprofit regional hospital for more than 70 years.

TMC is Southern Arizona’s leading provider for emergency care and pediatric care (including Tucson’s first Pediatric Emergency Department), with top-notch intensive care units for adults, children and newborns.